Eakin's time of 4.008 seconds easily outdistanced Nick Guy of Sparta, Wis., for the top mark of the fourth performance. He also maintained the overall lead in the event heading into the sixth performance late Wednesday.

Each competitor performs in two go-rounds during the seven-day event. The top 20 in each division qualify for Sunday's short-go finals.

Eakin faces his second go-round in steer wrestling Friday morning. He was scheduled to compete in saddle bronc late Wednesday.